chapbook

English

Etymology

Formerly sold by chapmen; see the etymology there, and book.

Noun

chapbook (plural chapbooks)

1. A small book, usually made from a single sheet, folded several times, containing poems, ballads or religious tracts
   • 1849 Notices of Fugitive Tracts: And Chap-books Printed at Aldermary Churchyard, Bow Churchyard, Etc

     This was, till within the last few years, a favourite chapbook in the north of England.

   • 2005 Kathryn A. Lowry - The Tapestry of Popular Songs in 16th- and 17th Century China

     Two such examples of slim, chapbook-style collections were both part of larger compendia […]